Explains the role of authoring languages in the development of courseware material for use in computer-assisted instruction and describes examples available on small, medium, and large computers with emphasis on the language/author interface. Briefly considers authoring language evaluation, system integration, and distribution of courseware. 82…

Discusses a computer-assisted instruction authoring aid called PROFORMA which converts ordinary text into output on a computer screen in a format which contains, as desired, framed tables, reverse video, boldface print, moving text, and question-and-answer sequences. Use of PROFORMA in the teaching of French is discussed. (Author/JJD)

The study guide is conceptualized in an ideal form. This includes an examination of instructional context and learning functions. The practical components employed in the design of a study guide and practical decisions that have to be made in its design are also sketched. Thirteen references are listed. (Author/MBR)

Defines eight software production stages, and argues that the key to the production of a higher quantity of reasonable quality software lies in development of support technologies to assist teachers in software development. Three approaches--software toolboxes, computer assisted instruction (CAI) program shells, and software CAI analysts--are…

The first two articles describe the processes employed by Open University faculty members in preparing distance education courses and in commenting on and redrafting materials. The third looks at factors that influence the decisions of faculty members to determine why they prepare their teaching materials in the ways described. (MBR)